The Ikea Symfonisk Picture Frame with Wi-Fi Speaker largely delivers on its promise as a cleverly integrated home audio solution, blending minimalist design with Sonos sound technology. This isn’t just another speaker.

It’s a piece of decor that doubles as an audio device, aiming to free up space and reduce visual clutter.

While it won’t replace a dedicated audiophile setup, it excels as a versatile background podcast system, particularly for multi-room audio when paired with other Sonos or Symfonisk products.

Its main draw is the unique form factor, offering a surprisingly robust sound profile for its size and price, though some users might find its bass a bit lacking for certain genres. Ecs Liva Q3 Plus Review

Here’s a quick comparison of the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker against some relevant alternatives in the smart home and audio space:

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IKEA SYMFONISK Picture Frame with WiFi Speaker
- Key Features: Artwork integrated speaker, Wi-Fi connectivity Sonos ecosystem, wall-mountable or freestanding, interchangeable front panels.
- Average Price: ~$200
- Pros: Unique design, blends seamlessly into decor, Sonos multi-room compatibility, good sound for its form factor.
- Cons: Limited bass, no Bluetooth, requires Sonos app for setup, artwork options are specific to IKEA.
Sonos Era 100
- Key Features: Next-gen acoustic architecture, stereo sound, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, line-in, voice control Sonos Voice Control, Alexa.
- Average Price: ~$250
- Pros: Superior sound quality, more versatile connectivity, compact, excellent smart home integration.
- Cons: Traditional speaker form factor, not decor-integrated, higher price point.
Sonos One SL Skullcandy Hesh Anc Review
- Key Features: Compact smart speaker, Wi-Fi, rich sound, multi-room audio, touch controls.
- Pros: Great sound for its size, robust Sonos ecosystem, affordable entry into Sonos, works as surrounds.
- Cons: No built-in microphone for voice assistants, traditional speaker look, no Bluetooth.
Google Nest Audio
- Key Features: Smart speaker with Google Assistant, Wi-Fi, good bass for its size, stereo pairing.
- Average Price: ~$100
- Pros: Affordable, strong voice assistant integration, good sound for the price, easy setup.
- Cons: Google ecosystem only, not as premium sound as Sonos, less design-focused.
Amazon Echo Studio
- Key Features: High-fidelity smart speaker with Alexa, 3D audio Dolby Atmos, Zigbee smart home hub, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth.
- Pros: Immersive sound with compatible content, powerful bass, built-in smart home hub, affordable.
- Cons: Amazon ecosystem, larger footprint, design may not appeal to all, 3D audio content is limited.
Samsung The Frame TV
- Key Features: QLED 4K TV designed to look like a picture frame, customizable bezels, Art Mode displays artwork when off.
- Average Price: ~$1,000+ varies greatly by size
- Pros: Ultimate aesthetic integration it is the art, full TV functionality, impressive picture quality.
- Cons: Significantly higher price point, audio is TV speakers not a dedicated speaker, fundamentally a television.
Audioengine A2+ Wireless Speakers
- Key Features: Compact desktop speakers, Bluetooth aptX, USB audio, RCA inputs, built-in DAC.
- Average Price: ~$270
- Pros: Excellent audiophile-grade sound for their size, versatile connectivity, premium build quality, great for desktop or small room.
- Cons: Not wireless multi-room, traditional speaker design, more expensive, requires external power for each speaker.

Table of Contents

Design and Aesthetics: Blending Art and Audio

Let’s cut to the chase: the IKEA Symfonisk Picture Frame Wi-Fi Speaker isn’t just about sound. Samsung Galaxy Watch4 Review

It’s a stealthy piece of tech designed to disappear into your decor.

It’s an exercise in functional minimalism, aiming to solve the perennial problem of where to put speakers without them becoming an eyesore. This isn’t your typical bookshelf speaker.

It’s an art piece that also happens to pump out tunes.

The “Stealth Speaker” Concept

IKEA and Sonos really leaned into the “hidden tech” trend here.

The idea is brilliant: why have a bulky box when your speaker can look like something you’d proudly display? The Symfonisk Picture Frame achieves this by integrating the speaker drivers and components behind an acoustically transparent fabric panel that doubles as a piece of art. Terramaster F4 421 4 Bay Nas Review

It’s a prime example of form following function, but with a twist—the function is both audio playback and visual integration.

Interchangeable Front Panels and Customization

One of the coolest features, and a significant design win, is the interchangeable front panels. Think of it like swapping out a phone case for your speaker. IKEA offers a selection of artistic prints that clip onto the front. This means you’re not stuck with one look. Want to refresh your living room aesthetic? Just pop on a new panel. This level of customization is rare in home audio and really emphasizes the “picture frame” aspect.

Current Art Options: While not an endless gallery, IKEA provides various styles, from abstract patterns to more subtle textures. This allows for personalization to match different interior design themes, from modern minimalist to bohemian chic.
DIY Potential: For the truly ambitious, the design invites speculation about DIY panel customization. Could you eventually print your own art on acoustic fabric? While not officially supported, the modular nature certainly opens up possibilities for third-party accessories or crafty users.
Mounting Versatility: It’s designed for both wall mounting and freestanding use. It comes with a stand for leaning against a wall or placing on a shelf, and a bracket for a flush wall mount. This flexibility means it can adapt to various room layouts and preferences. For smaller spaces or minimalist designs, wall-mounting is a must, freeing up valuable surface area.

Material Quality and Build

Given its IKEA origins, some might expect a flimsy build, but this isn’t the case.

The frame itself feels sturdy, and the overall construction is robust.

The fabric panels are well-fitted, and the connections for power and Ethernet yes, it has Ethernet! are discreetly placed. Google Pixel 5A With 5G Review

It manages to feel premium enough without breaking the bank.

The plastic housing is well-finished, and the rubber feet for freestanding or wall mount are thoughtfully designed to prevent vibrations.

Sound Quality: A Surprisingly Good Performance

Now, let’s talk turkey: how does this art piece sound? For a speaker designed to blend into the background, the Symfonisk Picture Frame delivers a surprisingly capable audio experience.

It’s not going to blow the doors off an audiophile setup, but for its form factor and price, it punches above its weight.

Audio Profile and Clarity

The sound profile is generally balanced and clear, with a focus on mid-range and treble. Vocals come through crisp, and acoustic instruments are rendered with decent detail. This makes it excellent for background podcast, podcasts, and even casual listening where clarity is key. It’s designed to fill a room with ambient sound, not necessarily to create a “sweet spot” listening experience. Msi Spatium M470 Review

Mid-Range: Strong and present, which is crucial for dialogue and vocals. This speaker shines when playing vocal-heavy genres like folk, jazz, or podcasts.
Treble: Clear and distinct without being overly harsh or sibilant. Details like cymbal crashes or high-hats are discernable.
Stereo Pairing: For those looking for a more immersive sound, pairing two Picture Frame speakers creates a true stereo image. This significantly enhances the soundstage and separation, making podcast feel more expansive. This is a common Sonos feature and one that vastly improves the listening experience.

Bass Response: The Expected Trade-off

This is where the laws of physics come into play.

Given its thin profile, the bass response is, predictably, not its strongest suit. It’s present, but it won’t shake your foundations.

Expect a respectable amount of bass for casual listening, but deep, resonant bass notes from hip-hop or electronic podcast might feel a bit understated.

Room for Improvement: If you’re a bass-head, you’ll notice the absence of chest-thumping lows. This is a common trade-off for speakers with a shallow depth.
Sonos Sub Mini Integration: The good news? It’s part of the Sonos ecosystem. This means you can wirelessly pair it with a Sonos Sub Mini. Adding a Sub Mini dramatically transforms the sound, offloading the low frequencies and allowing the Picture Frame speaker to focus on mids and highs, resulting in a much richer and more dynamic soundstage. This upgrade, however, adds significantly to the cost.

Room-Filling Capability

Despite its size, the Symfonisk Picture Frame is quite capable of filling a medium-sized room with sound.

It disperses audio fairly well, meaning you don’t have to be directly in front of it to get a decent listening experience. History Review

This makes it ideal for kitchens, home offices, or living rooms where ambient podcast is desired.

Its ability to play loud without significant distortion is also a notable plus.

Connectivity and Sonos Ecosystem Integration

The Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker isn’t just an IKEA product. it’s a full-fledged member of the Sonos family.

This is a crucial distinction and a major selling point, as it opens up a world of multi-room audio possibilities and robust software features.

Wi-Fi First, No Bluetooth

This speaker is built on Wi-Fi, not Bluetooth. Pantum P3012Dw Review

This is a deliberate choice by Sonos, as Wi-Fi offers several advantages:

Higher Audio Quality: Wi-Fi allows for uncompressed audio streaming, leading to better sound fidelity compared to Bluetooth.
Greater Range: You’re not limited by Bluetooth’s short range. as long as your Wi-Fi signal reaches, your podcast plays.
Multi-Room Synchronization: This is the killer feature. Play different podcast in different rooms, or sync all your Sonos speakers to play the same track perfectly in unison. There’s no perceptible delay between speakers, which is critical for whole-home audio.
Phone Calls Don’t Interrupt: Your podcast continues to play even if you receive a call on your phone, unlike Bluetooth speakers that often pause audio.

The lack of Bluetooth might be a con for some who want quick, direct pairing with a single device. However, for a home audio system, Wi-Fi is generally superior.

The Sonos App: Your Command Center

Setting up and controlling the Symfonisk Picture Frame is done entirely through the Sonos S2 app. This app is the heart of the Sonos ecosystem and is incredibly powerful and intuitive.

Seamless Setup: The app guides you through a straightforward setup process, connecting the speaker to your Wi-Fi network.
Podcast Service Integration: It supports a vast array of streaming services directly within the app, including Spotify, Apple Podcast, Tidal, Amazon Podcast, Pandora, and many more. This means you’re streaming directly from the internet, not relaying through your phone.
Trueplay Tuning: This is a Sonos gem. Using your phone’s microphone, Trueplay analyzes how sound reflects off walls, furniture, and other surfaces in a room, then customizes the speaker’s EQ for optimal sound. This can significantly improve the audio quality and is a feature usually found on more expensive audio equipment. A quick Trueplay tuning can make a noticeable difference in how the Symfonisk Picture Frame sounds in your specific space.
EQ Adjustments: Beyond Trueplay, you can manually tweak bass and treble levels within the app if you have specific preferences.
Grouping and Stereo Pairing: Easily group speakers to play together or set up a stereo pair for enhanced sound.

Apple AirPlay 2 Support

For Apple users, the inclusion of AirPlay 2 is a significant bonus. This allows you to stream audio directly from any Apple device iPhone, iPad, Mac to the Symfonisk speaker, bypassing the Sonos app if you prefer. It’s incredibly convenient for quickly playing audio from any app on your Apple device, be it YouTube, a web browser, or a less common podcast service.

Ethernet Port

While Wi-Fi is the primary connection, the Picture Frame speaker also includes an Ethernet port. This is a great option for those who prefer a wired, more stable connection, especially if their Wi-Fi signal is weak or prone to interference in certain areas. It’s also useful for initial setup in some networking scenarios. Facebook Ray Ban Stories Review

Smart Home Integration and Voice Control

While the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker doesn’t have a built-in microphone for voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant, its integration into the Sonos ecosystem provides several avenues for smart home control.

No Built-in Voice Assistant

It’s important to clarify: this speaker does not have a microphone and therefore cannot directly respond to voice commands. You won’t be talking to Alexa or Google Assistant through the Picture Frame speaker itself. This keeps the design clean and focused purely on audio output and visual aesthetics, avoiding potential privacy concerns some have with always-listening microphones.

Control via Other Sonos Devices

This is where the magic happens for voice control.

If you have another Sonos speaker with a built-in voice assistant like a Sonos One, Sonos Beam, or Sonos Roam, you can control the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker through it. For example:

“Alexa, play jazz in the living room” where your Picture Frame speaker is located.
“Hey Google, turn up the volume on the Symfonisk.”

The voice assistant on the other Sonos device acts as the “brain,” sending commands to the Picture Frame speaker over the Sonos network. Gigabtye Aorus Fi32Q Review

This allows for a distributed voice control system throughout your home.

Integration with Smart Home Platforms

Because it’s part of the Sonos ecosystem, the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker can be integrated into broader smart home platforms that support Sonos.

Google Home: You can link your Sonos system to Google Home, allowing you to control playback and grouping of your Symfonisk speaker through the Google Home app or via Google Assistant devices.
Amazon Alexa: Similarly, linking your Sonos system to Alexa enables control through the Alexa app and any Echo devices you might own.
Home Assistant/Other Hubs: For advanced users, Sonos often has integrations with open-source and commercial smart home hubs like Home Assistant, SmartThings, and Hubitat, allowing for complex automations e.g., podcast starts when you enter a room, or pauses when someone rings the doorbell.

Sonos Voice Control

Sonos has also introduced its own voice assistant, Sonos Voice Control. While not offering the full range of smart home commands like Alexa or Google Assistant, it’s designed specifically for podcast playback control across your Sonos system. If you have a compatible Sonos speaker with a microphone, you can use Sonos Voice Control to play podcast on your Picture Frame speaker. This keeps your podcast experience entirely within the Sonos ecosystem if desired.

Use Cases and Placement Strategies

The unique design of the Ikea Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker opens up several interesting use cases and placement strategies that traditional speakers simply can’t offer.

Its dual identity as both art and audio makes it incredibly versatile. Oneplus 9 Pro Review

Aesthetic Integration in Living Spaces

This is where the Picture Frame speaker truly shines.

It’s designed to be a conversation starter that also provides ambient sound.

Living Rooms: Instead of a bulky speaker next to your TV or on a bookshelf, imagine a piece of abstract art on your wall that subtly fills the room with podcast. This is ideal for minimalists or those who dislike visible tech clutter.
Bedrooms: A great way to add audio without taking up precious nightstand or dresser space. Wall-mounted, it blends seamlessly into the decor.
Dining Areas: Provides background podcast during meals or gatherings without drawing attention to itself.
Hallways/Entryways: Often overlooked spaces for audio, the Picture Frame speaker can add a pleasant ambiance as you move through your home.

Multi-Room Audio Expansion

As part of the Sonos ecosystem, it’s an excellent choice for expanding a multi-room audio setup.

Filling Gaps: If you already have Sonos speakers in main areas, the Picture Frame can fill in smaller rooms or zones e.g., a home office, kitchen nook, or even a large bathroom where you want ambient sound but don’t want a prominent speaker.
Sonos “Zones”: You can create distinct audio zones with these speakers. For example, relaxing podcast in the bedroom while a podcast plays in the kitchen.
Cost-Effective Expansion: For those already invested in Sonos, the Symfonisk line offers a more budget-friendly way to add more rooms to their system without sacrificing the core Sonos experience.

Wall-Mounted Speaker Alternative

For those who want wall-mounted speakers but don’t want to cut into their walls or deal with complex wiring, the Picture Frame offers a simpler, surface-mounted alternative.

No In-Wall Hassle: Avoids the need for custom installation or cutting drywall, making it ideal for renters or those who prefer a less permanent solution.
Cleaner Look: Cables can be discreetly managed through the base or wall-mounted power strips, reducing visual clutter.

Beyond Traditional Placements

Think creatively with these. Deathloop For Playstation 5 Review

Their art-like appearance allows them to be placed in areas where a traditional speaker would look out of place.

Above a Console Table: Leaning against the wall, acting as a decorative piece.
In a Gallery Wall: Part of a larger collection of framed art, making its true identity a surprise.
Home Office: Providing focused background podcast or podcasts without taking up desk real estate.
Kids’ Rooms: With playful artwork, it can be a fun addition that provides bedtime stories or podcast.

Stereo Pair for Enhanced Audio

Don’t forget the power of pairing two of these!

Small Home Theater Setup: While not a true home theater speaker, a stereo pair flanking a TV can significantly enhance audio for casual viewing, especially if paired with a Sonos soundbar like the Beam or Ray. The soundstage expands considerably, and dialogue becomes clearer.
Dedicated Listening Corner: For a more focused audio experience in a smaller room, two Picture Frames set up as a stereo pair can create a surprisingly immersive sound.

The Symfonisk Picture Frame isn’t trying to be an audiophile’s dream speaker, but it’s an incredibly practical and aesthetically pleasing solution for bringing quality Wi-Fi audio into more corners of your home.

Value Proposition and Competition

Assessing the value of the Ikea Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker requires looking beyond just sound quality.

Its unique selling proposition is the blend of art, audio, and Sonos ecosystem integration at a relatively accessible price point. Nintendo Switch Lite Review

Price Point Analysis

At around $200, the Symfonisk Picture Frame is positioned competitively within the Wi-Fi speaker market, especially considering its Sonos integration.

Compared to Sonos: It’s roughly the same price as a Sonos One SL which lacks a mic or slightly less than a Sonos Era 100 which offers better sound and Bluetooth. For the same audio quality, you’d typically pay more for a Sonos-branded speaker that isn’t integrated into a picture frame. The value here is in the form factor and aesthetic integration.
Compared to Smart Speakers: It’s more expensive than basic smart speakers like the Google Nest Audio or Amazon Echo models, which often retail for under $100. However, the Symfonisk offers superior sound quality and the robust Sonos multi-room system, which these budget smart speakers often lack in seamlessness.
Compared to Art Speakers: In the niche market of speakers designed to look like art, the Symfonisk stands out for its affordability. High-end art speakers or custom installations can run into thousands of dollars. IKEA democratizes this concept.

Who is it For?

This speaker targets a specific demographic:

Design-Conscious Consumers: People who prioritize aesthetics and minimalist design in their homes.
Sonos Ecosystem Users: Those already invested in Sonos who want to expand their system discreetly and perhaps more affordably.
Renters: Who want wall-mounted sound without damaging walls or making permanent modifications.
Small Space Dwellers: Where every inch counts, and a speaker that doubles as art is a space-saving win.
Ambient Podcast Lovers: Those who want background podcast throughout their home without prominent tech.

The Ecosystem Advantage

The biggest competitive advantage the Symfonisk line has is its seamless integration with the Sonos ecosystem. This means:

Multi-Brand Compatibility: It works flawlessly with all other Sonos speakers, regardless of brand. Mix and match your Picture Frame with a Sonos Arc, a Sonos Move, or another Symfonisk lamp.
Future-Proofing: Sonos is known for its long-term software support and regular updates, ensuring your speaker remains relevant and functional for years.
Unified Control: Everything is controlled from the single, powerful Sonos S2 app.

Key Competitors and Alternatives

While the Picture Frame speaker is unique in its form factor, here’s how it stacks up against alternatives:

Traditional Sonos Speakers Sonos One SL, Sonos Era 100: Offer similar sound quality or better with Era 100 and full Sonos features. The trade-off is the traditional speaker aesthetic. If aesthetics aren’t paramount, these might offer better pure audio value.
Smart Displays Google Nest Hub Max, Amazon Echo Show 10: These offer screens and often decent audio, plus integrated voice assistants and video calling. They don’t disappear into decor but offer more functionality beyond just audio.
Bookshelf Speakers Klipsch RP-500M, Q Acoustics 3020i: For pure audio fidelity, dedicated passive or active bookshelf speakers often offer superior soundstage, detail, and bass. However, they are larger, often require an amplifier, and certainly don’t blend in. They cater to a different audience altogether.
Samsung The Frame TV: This is the ultimate “art that’s tech” device. It is a TV that displays art, but it’s fundamentally a visual device, not primarily an audio one. It’s a much higher price point and a different category entirely, though it addresses the same desire for tech to blend into decor.

The Symfonisk Picture Frame occupies a compelling niche. Samsung 75 Inch Class Qn90A Neo Qled Tv Review

It’s an easy recommendation for those who prioritize seamless aesthetic integration and value the robust Sonos ecosystem, accepting the audio performance as good, but not groundbreaking, for its price.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the Ikea Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker offers a compelling blend of design and audio, it’s not without its limitations.

Being aware of these potential drawbacks can help set expectations and ensure it’s the right fit for your needs.

Limited Bass Response

As discussed, the slim profile of the speaker means there’s a physical limitation to how much deep bass it can produce.

Not for Bass-Heads: If you listen to a lot of bass-heavy genres like EDM, hip-hop, or certain movie soundtracks, you might find the bass lacking. It’s present and articulate, but it won’t give you that visceral rumble.
Solution: Sonos Sub Mini: The best way to mitigate this is by adding a Sonos Sub Mini. This external subwoofer dramatically improves the low-end performance and allows the Picture Frame to focus on mids and highs. However, this significantly increases the overall cost and introduces another piece of equipment.

No Bluetooth Connectivity

This is a deliberate design choice by Sonos, but it can be a drawback for certain use cases. Guardians Of The Galaxy For Pc Review

Reliance on Wi-Fi: The speaker requires a stable Wi-Fi connection to function. If your network is spotty, you might experience dropouts or buffering.
Guest Access: Guests can’t simply pair their phone via Bluetooth to play podcast. They would need to join your Wi-Fi network and potentially download the Sonos app or use AirPlay 2 if they have an Apple device.
Direct Device Playback: You can’t directly play audio from a non-networked device e.g., an old MP3 player with no Wi-Fi without additional hardware.

Reliance on Sonos Ecosystem

While the Sonos ecosystem is a major strength, it also means you’re largely locked in.

Proprietary System: You’re reliant on the Sonos app for setup and most controls. If you’re not a fan of app-driven audio, this might be a hurdle.
No Standardized Casting: Unlike speakers with Chromecast built-in or universal Bluetooth, the Symfonisk primarily relies on Sonos’s proprietary networking or AirPlay 2 for Apple users. This might limit compatibility with certain devices or apps outside the Sonos ecosystem.

Limited Art Panel Options

While customizable, the selection of art panels is currently limited to what IKEA offers.

Taste Specificity: The available designs might not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic preferences. If you have a very specific artistic vision for your space, you might find the current options restrictive.
No Custom Art: There’s no official way to upload or display your own photos or custom artwork directly on the speaker. This contrasts with something like the Samsung Frame TV, which is designed for displaying personal photos.

Not a “Smart Speaker” in the Traditional Sense

As mentioned, it lacks a built-in microphone for voice assistants.

No Direct Voice Control: You can’t directly ask the Picture Frame speaker questions or control smart home devices with your voice. You’d need a separate voice assistant device e.g., an Echo Dot, Nest Mini, or another Sonos speaker with a mic.
No Intercom Features: Unlike some smart speakers, it doesn’t function as an intercom for communicating between rooms.

Power Cord Management

While wall-mounted, the speaker still requires a power cable.

Visible Cable: Unless you run the cable behind the wall which requires electrical work or an in-wall power kit, the power cord will be visible, potentially detracting from the “art” aesthetic. This is a common challenge with wall-mounted electronics.
Placement Limitations: The need for a power outlet dictates where you can place the speaker, just like any other powered device.

Considering these points, the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker is an excellent choice for a specific user who values its unique design and integration into the Sonos ecosystem, and is comfortable with its audio profile or willing to invest in a subwoofer.

Maintenance and Longevity

When you’re investing in a home audio device, especially one that doubles as a piece of decor, considering its long-term viability, maintenance, and potential lifespan is crucial.

The Ikea Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker, thanks to its Sonos DNA, generally bodes well in these areas.

Cleaning and Care

Maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the Picture Frame speaker is relatively straightforward.

Dusting: The primary maintenance involves dusting the fabric front panel and the frame itself. Use a soft, dry cloth or a gentle brush attachment on a vacuum cleaner to avoid damaging the fabric.
Stains: For light marks on the fabric, a very slightly damp cloth water only, no harsh chemicals might work, but proceed with extreme caution and test in an inconspicuous area first. Given it’s an acoustic fabric, excessive moisture or aggressive cleaning can damage the material or affect sound transparency. Avoid harsh detergents, abrasives, or solvents entirely.
Frame: The plastic frame can be wiped with a damp cloth.
Interchangeable Panels: The ability to swap out front panels means that if one gets severely damaged or stained, you might be able to purchase a replacement panel from IKEA, extending the visual lifespan of the speaker.

Software Updates and Sonos Longevity

This is arguably the strongest aspect of the Symfonisk speaker’s longevity.

As a Sonos device, it benefits from Sonos’s commitment to software updates and product support.

Regular Software Updates: Sonos consistently rolls out software updates for its devices, which often include:
- Bug fixes: Addressing any performance issues.
- New features: Adding functionality, like new podcast service integrations or control options.
- Security patches: Ensuring the device remains secure against vulnerabilities.
- Performance improvements: Optimizing audio processing or network connectivity.
Long-Term Support: Sonos has a strong track record of supporting its older devices for many years, sometimes even decades, as long as they remain compatible with the latest Sonos S2 app their current platform. This means your investment is likely to last.
Ecosystem Compatibility: As long as Sonos continues to support its core platform, your Picture Frame speaker will seamlessly integrate with any new Sonos products you purchase in the future. This avoids obsolescence due to incompatible systems.

Hardware Durability

The physical build of the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker is robust for its price point.

Sturdy Construction: The frame and internal components are well-protected. It’s not designed to be portable or withstand drops, but for a stationary home speaker, it should hold up well.
Internal Components: While not user-serviceable, Sonos components are generally reliable. Failures due to internal electronics are relatively rare.

Considerations for Long-Term Value

Changing Aesthetics: While the interchangeable panels help, if IKEA discontinues a certain panel design, or if your aesthetic tastes drastically change, you might find yourself wishing for more options.
Wi-Fi Standard Evolution: While unlikely to render the speaker obsolete quickly, Wi-Fi standards do evolve. Sonos is generally good at maintaining backward compatibility, but very old Wi-Fi hardware might eventually become less performant on cutting-edge networks though this is typically a very long-term concern.
Repairability: Like most modern consumer electronics, user repairability is limited. If a major internal component fails, you’re likely looking at a replacement rather than a simple fix, though Sonos’s customer support can provide guidance.

Overall, the Ikea Symfonisk Picture Frame Wi-Fi Speaker offers good long-term value, primarily due to its integration into the robust and well-supported Sonos ecosystem.

Its unique aesthetic and solid build quality mean it should remain a functional and visually appealing part of your home for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ikea Symfonisk Picture Frame Wi-Fi Speaker?

The Ikea Symfonisk Picture Frame Wi-Fi Speaker is a collaboration between IKEA and Sonos, designed to be a functional speaker that blends into home decor by looking like a piece of framed art.

It integrates seamlessly into the Sonos multi-room audio ecosystem.

How does the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker connect?

It connects via Wi-Fi and is part of the Sonos ecosystem.

It also supports Apple AirPlay 2 for direct streaming from Apple devices. There is no Bluetooth connectivity.

Does the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker have good sound quality?

Yes, for its size and unique form factor, it offers surprisingly good sound quality with clear mids and highs. The bass is present but not powerful.

It’s designed more for ambient, room-filling sound than deep bass.

Can I pair two Symfonisk Picture Frame speakers for stereo sound?

Yes, you can pair two Symfonisk Picture Frame speakers together in the Sonos app to create a dedicated stereo soundstage, significantly enhancing the audio experience.

Can I change the artwork on the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker?

Yes, the front fabric panel, which features the artwork, is interchangeable.

IKEA sells various art panels separately, allowing you to customize the look of the speaker.

Does the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker have a built-in voice assistant like Alexa or Google Assistant?

No, the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker does not have a built-in microphone and therefore cannot directly respond to voice commands.

However, it can be controlled by other Sonos speakers that do have voice assistants, or via the Sonos app.

Is the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker battery-powered?

No, it is a wired speaker and requires an electrical outlet for power.

Can I wall-mount the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker?

Yes, it comes with a wall-mounting bracket and hardware for a flush installation. It also includes a stand for freestanding use.

Does the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker work with existing Sonos systems?

Yes, it is fully integrated into the Sonos ecosystem and works seamlessly with all other Sonos speakers and products via the Sonos S2 app.

Can I use the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker with a Sonos Sub or Sub Mini?

Yes, you can wirelessly pair the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker with a Sonos Sub or Sonos Sub Mini to add powerful bass and offload low frequencies from the speaker, significantly improving overall sound.

How do I control the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker?

It is primarily controlled through the Sonos S2 app on your smartphone or tablet.

It also has basic touch controls on the side for play/pause and volume.

Is the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker waterproof or water-resistant?

No, it is not designed for outdoor use or exposure to moisture and is not water-resistant.

What are the dimensions of the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker?

The dimensions are approximately 22 inches 57 cm high, 16 inches 41 cm wide, and 2 inches 6 cm deep.

Can I use the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker as a rear surround sound speaker for a Sonos soundbar?

No, unlike the Symfonisk Bookshelf speaker, the Picture Frame speaker cannot be used as a rear surround sound speaker with a Sonos soundbar.

What podcast streaming services are compatible with the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker?

Through the Sonos app, it’s compatible with a vast array of popular streaming services, including Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon Podcast, Tidal, Pandora, Deezer, and many more.

Does the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker support multi-room audio?

Yes, multi-room audio is a core feature of the Sonos ecosystem, allowing you to group multiple Symfonisk or Sonos speakers to play the same podcast simultaneously or different podcast in different rooms.

Can I use the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker with non-Sonos audio equipment?

Only indirectly, through services like AirPlay 2 if supported by your non-Sonos device.

It does not have traditional audio inputs like AUX or optical to connect to other audio equipment.

Is the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker easy to set up?

Yes, setup is guided through the Sonos S2 app and is generally straightforward, requiring you to connect it to your Wi-Fi network.

What kind of power cable does it use?

It uses a standard two-prong AC power cable, which is included.

Can I buy custom art panels for the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker?

Currently, custom art panels are limited to the designs offered by IKEA.

There is no official option to upload your own custom artwork or photos.

How much does the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker cost?

It typically retails for around $200, though prices may vary depending on region and promotions.

Is it worth buying the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker?

It is worth buying if you prioritize discreet design, want quality Wi-Fi multi-room audio, and are already invested in or interested in the Sonos ecosystem.

Can I use Trueplay tuning with the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker?

Yes, Trueplay tuning is available via the Sonos S2 app, which optimizes the speaker’s sound for your specific room acoustics using an iOS device.

Does the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker have touch controls?

Yes, it has capacitive touch controls on the side for playing/pausing podcast and adjusting the volume.

What is the difference between the Symfonisk Picture Frame and the Symfonisk Bookshelf speaker?

The Picture Frame speaker is designed to look like a framed art piece and can be wall-mounted or freestanding, offering a more decor-integrated solution.

The Bookshelf speaker is a more traditional rectangular speaker that can double as a bookshelf or stand. They both integrate into the Sonos ecosystem.

Can I use the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker outdoors?

No, it is designed for indoor use only and is not weather-resistant.

What happens if my Wi-Fi goes down?

If your Wi-Fi network is down, the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker will not be able to stream podcast as it relies entirely on Wi-Fi for connectivity.

Does the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker require a Sonos Bridge or Boost?

No, modern Sonos systems, including the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker, typically do not require a separate Sonos Bridge or Boost unless you have specific network configurations or very large homes with weak Wi-Fi.

Can I stream audio from my TV to the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker?

Not directly, as it doesn’t have an HDMI-ARC or optical input.

However, if you have a Sonos soundbar connected to your TV, you can group the Picture Frame speaker with the soundbar in the Sonos app to play TV audio throughout your home.

Are there different color options for the frame of the Symfonisk Picture Frame speaker?

The frame itself typically comes in black or white.

The variety comes from the interchangeable art panels.

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